For many people in Jinan, summer begins with a bowl of cold sesame noodles. Coated in rich sesame paste and topped with crisp seasonal vegetables, the chilled noodles are prized for their silky texture, nutty aroma, and refreshing taste.

Freshly cooked noodles are quickly cooled in spring water, giving them a pleasantly firm bite. Shredded cucumber and carrot, minced garlic and pickled toon buds are added before everything is tossed in fragrant sesame paste. The result is a simple yet deeply satisfying dish, with creamy sesame, fresh vegetables and subtle garlicky notes in every bite.

Those looking to experience a traditional version can visit Laohoujia noodle house on Jingshiyi Road in Lixia district, where the dish is made in the traditional style. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch or a light evening meal, the dish remains one of the city's signature summer foods.

A freshly prepared bowl of cold noodles is topped with assorted vegetables and served with sesame paste in Jinan. [Photo/WeChat account: Friendly Shandong]